WANA (Apr 20) – In a comprehensive interview regarding the current regional crisis, Iranian Ambassador Kazem Jalali clarified that Russia is not providing military support for the current conflict, while emphasizing that Tehran will not deviate from its established “red lines.”

 

Assessment of U.S.-Israeli Military Objectives

Ambassador Jalali reported that despite a coordinated effort between Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu to achieve “regime change” and military dominance within days, they failed to meet any of their objectives.

 

He noted that their actions instead fostered Iranian national unity and bolstered military morale. The Ambassador specifically criticized the U.S. stated goal of “opening” the Strait of Hormuz, labeling it “ridiculous” as the waterway was fully free and open prior to U.S. military intervention.

 

The New Maritime Legal Regime

Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Jalali stated that a new legal regime is now in effect. He confirmed that:

  • Iran will guarantee safe and secure passage for vessels according to these new regulations.
  • Regarding potential transit fees, he noted that the Iranian Parliament is currently investigating several options, though specific details remain internal for now.

 

Diplomatic Efforts and the “Ten-Point Plan”

Jalali detailed the transition from military confrontation to diplomacy, noting that the appointment of Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf as chief negotiator—with the backing of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei—demonstrates a high-level sovereign decision to pursue talks.

 

He stated that after Iran successfully repelled initial attacks, the U.S. proposed a 15-point plan, which Tehran immediately rejected. Subsequently, Iran drafted its own 10-point plan, which mediators indicated the U.S. has accepted as a foundation for negotiations. However, he warned that if the U.S. seeks a win-lose outcome or a total blockade, the negotiations will fail.

 

Ties with Russia and Europe

The Ambassador addressed Iran’s international relationships with the following points:

 

Russian Support: He denied claims of Russian military or intelligence aid specifically for this war, clarifying that existing contracts were signed long ago and are merely being fulfilled.

 

Mediation: He expressed gratitude for Russia’s constructive role and welcomed further initiatives from Moscow.

 

European Autonomy: Jalali criticized Europe for failing to uphold its JCPOA commitments and for its lack of independence from Washington. He expressed hope that Europe might eventually achieve a “minimum level of independence” in its foreign policy.

 

Regional Security and Retaliatory Strikes

Addressing the concerns of neighboring countries, the Ambassador clarified that Iranian strikes were targeted exclusively at U.S. military bases and not at the sovereignty of neighboring Arab states.

 

He argued that since these countries often claim they do not control the U.S. bases on their soil, they should not view attacks on those bases as attacks on themselves. He called for the withdrawal of extra-regional forces to allow for a new, locally-managed security architecture.

 

Energy and Oil Market Dynamics

Ambassador Jalali addressed the economic front of the conflict, particularly regarding energy:

 

Oil Prices: He stated that President Trump has used every effort to contain rising oil prices, including using social media and “psychological warfare” to calm markets after escalating military actions.

 

Oil Sales: He confirmed that Iran has freed itself from restrictive measures, noting that the country continues to sell its oil at prices determined by its own Ministry of Petroleum.

 

Nuclear Cooperation and Enrichment

The Ambassador provided an update on Iran’s nuclear sector and its cooperation with Russia:

 

Bushehr Nuclear Plant: He confirmed that the Bushehr plant remains fully operational thanks to the efforts of Iranian specialists and continued cooperation with Russian experts still on-site.

 

Strategic Partnership: He noted that peaceful nuclear cooperation with Russia is based on a 20-year strategic partnership, which includes long-term plans for the Hormozgan nuclear plant and smaller power stations.

 

Right to Enrichment: Jalali reaffirmed that Iran maintains its right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy under the NPT and is planning its future within that legal framework.

 

Infrastructure Resilience

Despite the conflict, Jalali confirmed that strategic projects are moving forward:

 

Railway Projects: The executive contract for the Rasht-Astara railway is expected to proceed this year despite the war.

 

Gas Cooperation: The Azerbaijan route remains the most viable for Russia-Iran gas swaps, likely utilizing local currencies for financing and involving major energy companies from both nations.

 

Regional Conflicts and Ukraine

Regarding Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s regional travels and the promotion of Ukrainian military products, Jalali stated that Iran desires global peace and that such efforts would not impact Tehran’s resolve or strategic direction.